“Cruel Summer” by Ace of Base is a cover of the 1983 hit originally performed by Bananarama in June 1983. Released in August 1998, Ace of Base’s version adds a modern Eurodance and reggae-pop twist to the classic song, giving it a fresh, upbeat feel while maintaining its original essence. The track was included on their third studio album, Flowers, and its U.S. counterpart, Cruel Summer.
The lyrics depict the emotional struggle of enduring a lonely summer, expressing themes of heartbreak and isolation. The song captures a bittersweet mood, balancing its breezy, summery vibe with a touch of melancholy. Ace of Base’s rendition is characterized by its polished production, featuring a bouncy rhythm, bright synths, and reggae-inspired beats, hallmarks of the band’s signature sound. The vocals, primarily delivered by Jenny and Linn Berggren, are smooth and layered, adding a melodic warmth that complements the track’s catchy arrangement.
The song was a moderate commercial success, charting well in several countries. It reached No. 6 in the UK, and No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart in the United States. While it didn’t achieve the same iconic status as the original, Ace of Base’s version was praised for its contemporary update and summery feel.
The music video, directed by Nigel Dick, was filmed in Rome. There are three versions of the video: “Cruel Summer”, “Cruel Summer” (Big Bonus Mix), and “Cruel Summer” (Frenglish version featuring Alliage).